Head-to-head comparison of Princeton Review and Kaplan MCAT prep courses. Compare pricing, features, teaching quality, and outcomes to choose the right course.
Princeton Review vs Kaplan MCAT: The Bottom Line
Both Princeton Review and Kaplan are established MCAT prep providers, but they take different approaches. Princeton Review emphasizes small class sizes and personalized attention, while Kaplan focuses on comprehensive content coverage and adaptive technology.
Pricing Comparison
Princeton Review MCAT:
- MCAT 525+: $3,299 (live online, 123 hours)
- MCAT Self-Paced: $2,199 (on-demand videos)
- MCAT Tutoring: Starting at $4,999
Kaplan MCAT:
- Live Online: $2,799 (live classes, 120 hours)
- Self-Paced: $1,999 USD (on-demand videos)
- Private Tutoring: Starting at $4,499
Winner: Kaplan offers better value at every tier, with similar content hours at lower price points.
Course Content & Materials
Princeton Review provides 7 review books covering all MCAT sections, plus access to 16 full-length practice tests (including all AAMC official tests).
Kaplan includes 7 subject review books, access to 16 full-length practice tests, and their proprietary QBank with over 3,000 practice questions.
Winner: Tie. Both offer comprehensive materials, though Kaplan QBank gives them a slight edge for students who prefer question-based practice.
Teaching Quality & Instruction
Princeton Review caps classes at 12 students and emphasizes interactive discussion. Instructors are required to have scored in the 90th percentile or higher on the MCAT.
Kaplan classes typically have 15 to 25 students. Instructors must have scored in the 90th percentile and complete Kaplan training program.
Winner: Princeton Review. Smaller class sizes allow for more personalized attention and better student-teacher interaction.
Technology & Platform
Princeton Review offers a straightforward learning platform with video lessons, practice tests, and progress tracking. The interface is clean but not particularly innovative.
Kaplan features adaptive Qbank technology that adjusts question difficulty based on your performance, plus detailed analytics showing strengths and weaknesses by topic.
Winner: Kaplan. Their adaptive technology and analytics provide more sophisticated study guidance.
Practice Tests & Questions
Both courses include:
- All AAMC official practice tests
- 10+ proprietary full-length tests
- Thousands of practice questions
Winner: Tie. Both provide ample practice material, though Kaplan adaptive QBank is more sophisticated.
Score Guarantees
Princeton Review offers a score improvement guarantee: if you do not improve your score, you can repeat the course for free or get a full refund.
Kaplan offers a similar guarantee: repeat the course for free if you do not achieve your target score, or get a refund if you complete all requirements.
Winner: Tie. Both offer strong guarantees, though terms and conditions apply.
Best For Different Students
Choose Princeton Review if:
- You value small class sizes and personalized attention
- You prefer interactive, discussion-based learning
- You are willing to pay more for a premium experience
Choose Kaplan if:
- You want better value for money
- You prefer adaptive technology and detailed analytics
- You learn well through question-based practice
Our Recommendation
For most students, Kaplan offers better value with comparable content quality, more sophisticated technology, and lower pricing. However, if you strongly prefer small class sizes and interactive instruction, Princeton Review premium experience may justify the higher cost.
For the absolute best MCAT prep, consider Wizeprep MCAT Elite 515, which combines unlimited live coaching, comprehensive materials, and a 515+ score guarantee at $2,999 USD.
FAQ
Q: Which has better practice tests? A: Both include all AAMC official tests plus 10+ proprietary tests. Quality is comparable.
Q: Can I switch between live and self-paced? A: Both companies allow upgrades but typically not downgrades. Check with the provider.
Q: Which is better for retakers? A: Kaplan adaptive QBank is particularly useful for retakers who need targeted practice on weak areas.
Q: Do both offer payment plans? A: Yes, both offer monthly payment plans with 0% interest financing options.
The Ultimate MCAT Study Schedule: 3/6/12-Month Plans
Get your complete MCAT study roadmap with 3/6/12-month plans. Includes specific daily tasks, practice test tracker, and score improvement strategies for 515+.
No spam, ever. Unsubscribe anytime.